The Billionaire's Bought Bride

Chapter 7: Coals to Embers

Weeks melted into months, the initial awkwardness of their arranged marriage replaced by a comfortable familiarity. Aditi and Arjun had carved out a haven within the gilded cage of the Rathore mansion. Their stolen moments were filled with a deeper intimacy, a tenderness that surprised them both.

One afternoon, while Arjun was away on a business trip, Aditi found herself in the grand library. Sunlight streamed through the arched windows, illuminating the rows of leather-bound books. As she browsed the shelves, her fingers brushed against a familiar touch – a silver frame nestled amongst the classics. A mischievous smile played on her lips.

It was a photograph of Arjun, a younger version, perhaps in his early twenties, standing proudly in front of a university building. This playful side of him, a stark contrast to the composed businessman she knew, warmed her heart.

Suddenly, a voice startled her. "Looking through my academic history, are we?"

Aditi spun around, her heart pounding. Arjun stood in the doorway, his brow raised in amusement.

"Just... reminiscing," she stammered, holding up the picture. "You look so... different here."

His eyes softened as he gazed at the photograph. "Younger, definitely less burdened," he admitted, a hint of nostalgia in his voice.

He stepped closer to her, their bodies brushing against each other as he reached for the frame. Their gazes met, and a spark ignited in the air.

"You should go on more business trips," Aditi teased playfully, a boldness blooming within her.

He chuckled, a low rumble that sent shivers down her spine. "Careful what you wish for, Aditi," he countered, his voice husky. He leaned in closer, his breath warm against her ear. "I might get used to having the house to myself."

His words sent a jolt of electricity through her. Their playful banter had taken on a new edge, a hint of possessiveness that both startled and thrilled her.

Before she could respond, his lips met hers in a kiss that was both playful and demanding. He explored her mouth with a reverence that sent a shiver down her spine. His touch ignited a fire within her, a yearning she hadn't known existed.

Their kiss deepened, a desperate exploration fueled by their newfound closeness and the days of separation. His hands roamed her body, sending shivers down her spine as he traced the curve of her waist and lingered on the swell of her hips.

Suddenly, an unwelcome sound broke the spell. The distant peal of the doorbell shattered the quiet intimacy of the library. Arjun pulled back, his chest heaving, his eyes filled with a flicker of frustration.

"Duty calls," he muttered, his voice husky with desire.

Aditi felt a pang of disappointment, but she understood. Their stolen moments were becoming increasingly precious, a secret shared amidst the demands of their lives.

Later that evening, as they sat by the crackling fireplace in their room, a comfortable silence settled between them. Aditi, nestled against Arjun, stole a glance at his profile. His expression was unreadable, a mix of emotions swirling in his eyes.

"What are you thinking about?" she asked softly, running a finger along his arm.

He turned to face her, his gaze meeting hers. "About this," he confessed, his voice a husky murmur. "About us."

"Us?" she echoed, her heart pounding in her chest.

"This... this spark between us," he continued, his voice low and intense. "It wasn't supposed to happen, Aditi. This marriage was a business arrangement, nothing more."